Alternative Names

How the Test is Performed

After endotracheal intubation, you will likely be placed on a breathing machine.

If you are awake after the procedure, your health care provider may give you medicine to reduce your anxiety or discomfort.

Why the Test is Performed

Endotracheal intubation is done to:

Open the airway to give oxygen, medication, or anesthesia

Remove blockages from the airway

Allow the doctor to get a better view of the upper airway

Protect the lungs in certain patients

Risks

Risks for any surgery are:

Bleeding

Infection

Additional risks for this procedure include trauma to the voice box (larynx), thyroid gland, vocal cords and trachea (windpipe), or esophagus. Puncture or perforation (tearing) of body parts in the chest cavity, leading to lung collapse, may also occur.